An independent trip to Tibet is in principle possible, but it will require considerable organizational skills. In addition, such Tibet appears in a completely new light, but you will hardly be able to save money on such a trip.
Obtaining an entry permit
Since 2008, in order to enter the territory of Tibet, you must have a special permit - a permit.
If it is planned to enter TAP (Tibet Autonomous Region) from Nepal, then there is no need to apply for a visa to enter China. In any case, it will be canceled as it requires a special group visa. You can register it at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. Travel agencies provide assistance with registration.
For free entry to the territory of the Middle Kingdom, you must apply for a tourist visa. Since in order to enter the TAP, it is necessary, in addition to the permit, to present a copy of the visa to China.
How to get to Tibet
There are two options here: flight (Kathmandu, Chengdu, Beijing or Shanghai airport); by train (every day the train departs from Lhasu station). You need to know that you will not be allowed on board the plane or on the train without presenting a permit to enter the territory of Tibet.
Tibet Accommodation
Conventionally, the entire territory of Tibet is divided into a tourist zone and an ordinary one. The tourist one has a well-organized infrastructure. In such places there are comfortable hotels, cafes, souvenir shops.
The main cities of Tibet, receiving tourists from all over the world, are Lhasa, Shigatse and Gyantse. There are quite decent budget hotels here. There are also some good private hotels. There are especially many such establishments in Lhasa.
Moving around the territory of Tibet
The most comfortable way to travel in Tibet is to order a jeep or a small bus. Of course, you can try to get around by regular buses, but they don't go well. A more or less decent bus service is developed only in central Tibet.
Taxi services are convenient to use exclusively on the territory of Lhasa. A huge number of pedicabs ride the streets of the city. The price of the services is quite acceptable. If you are planning a trip to remote areas, then you must definitely rent a jeep with a driver.
It is not customary to hitchhike around Tibet.
Drive to remote areas of Tibet
To avoid problems with the local police, such a trip should be arranged through travel agencies in Lhasa. There are many companies specializing in the sale of such tours. All papers can take from one to five days to complete. It is highly likely that you will need to wait for the formation of a tourist group.
